County Provides Additional Information Following Capture and Relocation of Mount Shasta Mountain Lion

YREKA, Calif. - Following the recent capture and relocation of juvenile mountain lion F-79, Siskiyou County (the County) is providing additional information about the effort that took place behind the scenes to address community concerns while prioritizing public safety and the welfare of the animal.

Over the past several weeks, the mountain lion was observed repeatedly within and around the Weed and Mount Shasta communities, generating concern among residents and prompting a coordinated response involving the Siskiyou County Department of Agriculture, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office, Mount Shasta Police Department, California Highway Patrol, and other local partners.

The County recognizes that repeated sightings of the mountain lion within and around local communities raised understandable concerns among residents. Reports from community members were a critical part of the response effort, helping wildlife professionals track the lion's movements, identify patterns of activity, and inform decision-making throughout the incident. Although the capture occurred on June 5, it represented the culmination of days and weeks of planning, monitoring, information gathering, and coordination among local and state wildlife professionals. While the public often sees the final outcome, a significant amount of work takes place behind the scenes before wildlife management decisions are made and response actions can occur.

A substantial part of that effort was carried out by Siskiyou County's Trappers, who serve as the backbone of the County's wildlife response efforts. Long before the mountain lion was captured, County Trappers spent substantial time responding to reports, monitoring activity, documenting behavior, communicating with residents and landowners, and assisting partner agencies. Their field work, observations, and ongoing communication helped build the situational awareness necessary to support informed decision-making throughout the incident.

County Trappers are the County's primary wildlife response professionals and are often the first individuals called upon when wildlife concerns arise. They serve as a vital link between local communities and wildlife management agencies, responding to reports, assessing conditions in the field, monitoring animal activity, and helping coordinate response efforts. Their on-the-ground knowledge and expertise help inform management decisions, support field operations, and ensure wildlife conflicts are addressed safely, professionally, and in accordance with established policies. A key part of their role is maintaining awareness of wildlife activity and emerging concerns so that agencies can respond proactively whenever possible, rather than react after situations have escalated.

Mountain lions are managed under a unique set of state laws, regulations, and policies that differ from those governing many other predator species. Because of this, wildlife professionals must evaluate a variety of factors, including public safety concerns, animal behavior, and available management options before determining an appropriate response.

The County also extends its appreciation to the many residents who reported sightings and observations throughout the incident and remained engaged as agencies worked through the response process. Public reports provided invaluable information that helped wildlife officials monitor the mountain lion's movements and evaluate response options.

The Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors recognizes and commends the County's Trappers for their dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment throughout this incident. As the County's frontline wildlife personnel, their work behind the scenes plays a critical role in supporting response efforts, informing management decisions, and helping address wildlife conflicts throughout Siskiyou County.

What To Do During a Mountain Lion Encounter

Residents and visitors should be aware of how to respond if they encounter a mountain lion exhibiting concerning or aggressive behavior.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife:

• Stay calm and do not run.
• Make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms or opening a jacket.
• Maintain eye contact with the animal.
• Keep children close and pick up small children if it can be done safely.
• Never approach, corner, or attempt to feed wildlife.
• If a mountain lion behaves aggressively, make noise, throw objects if necessary, and defend yourself if attacked.

Learn more about Mountain Lions in California.

Residents should report aggressive wildlife behavior, depredations, or other concerning wildlife interactions to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and local law enforcement when appropriate.

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